Besides its presence on the Iberian Peninsula, Portugal encompasses the Azores Islands of the Archipelago, one of which is the Flores Island. This land mass is covered with forests in the center, but ringed with sandy beaches and covered in pink and purple hydrangea flowers. Flores lies nearly 1,000 miles to the west of Lisbon in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. The Portuguese colonized the islands in the mid-15th century. Often invaded by pirates, the islands eventually became an important part of Atlantic trade, serving as a stopping point for planes and cruise ships. They are known for their fishing industry, tropical fruit, wine, and cheeses.

Azores Flores, far out in the sea, is an unlikely home to dairy cows, but the Portuguese saw the lush fields and forests and realized the potential for cattle rearing. The farmers now promote Azores Flores, a pasteurized cow's milk cheese, aged for three months, with a strong, clean, spicy taste and aroma.

While this cheese is not overly aged, its history dates back to seafaring times. The islands were known for their high quality, fragrant milk. The farmers made fresh cheeses meant to be eaten straightaway in the port, but for those on a long journey, they made firmer cheeses that could travel the distance.

i love this cheese. period. it is a cheddar kind of cheese, but with more bite, and is terrific with apples and crackers or triscuits

By Sharonfrom Western NCon Jul 28, 2013

Very nice

We had this cheese in The Azores several times. Local restaurants serve it with bread in the place of butter. Texture reminds me of gouda and the flavor a mild cheddar. Very unique but simple!

By trixietickfrom Newport, Tnon Apr 06, 2013

THIS CHEESE IS AWFUL

This was the worst tasting cheese I have ever had in my entire life and I have had plenty of varieties.However as with anything it is just a matter of personal taste certainly no ones fault. not the maker or the seller.

By Dmitry Feldfrom Lake Placid, NYon Mar 15, 2013

thanks Azores people for this fantastic cheese

Quite interesting cheese, I've ordered for my wife Linda who is cheese lover and she didn't liked but I loved it. Creamy and have this very special ("stinky cheese" smell and taste). Wow, yummy, it is fantastic cheese but probably not for every body. thanks Azores for this cool/wonderful cheese. Dmitry

By Kathyfrom Tampa Floridaon Mar 18, 2012

Loved this cheese.

Nutty and very flavorful. Great with red or white wine, or with a dark beer. I love everything about the Azores; the lifestyle, the countryside, the people, and they also make some extraordinary sausage.

By halpadtfrom Phoenix AZon Nov 14, 2011

Great Cheese

Wonderful soft and mild cheese. Great with red grapes.

By JTfrom Sierra Vista Azon Nov 13, 2011

Wonderful flavor

Creamy with a bit of herbal after taste. We Will order this one again.

By PJfrom Kalamazoo, MIon Oct 29, 2011

Lovely

We heard about this cheese 3 years ago while flying to the Azores for vacation. I've been looking for it ever since. It's well worth the search! Mellow and smooth, it's nice with wine and warm crusty bread or on crackers along with apple wedges. I would definitely recommend it.